In the Q2 Highlights Newsletter, the NIH Training Center (NIHTC) introduced the Emerging Talent Program (ETP), a new career development program designed specifically to support NIH employees at the GS 5-11 levels (including wage grade and Title 42 equivalents). The call for the 2024 ETP participants resulted in 142 nominations. From the nominations, 60 participants were placed to attend two cohorts, 30 participants each, in this inaugural year.

The launch of ETP Cohort 1 on February 26-27 was nothing short of inspiring. “Connection” served as the guiding theme throughout the orientation sessions with support from the program-titled “Luminaries” – NIH employees who lend to ETP’s success with their time and knowledge! In addition to inspiring career stories from luminaries Victoria Rucker, Tammy Reddick Lockett, and Brenda Robles, participants also gained insight on organizational culture and mindfulness from Sandra Scarbrough, Michelle Polera, Wendy Lee, and Chris Verbrugge. 

Participants also embarked on "mission connection experiences," including tours of the Children’s Inn and the Central Animal Facility. These were immersive journeys into the heart of work at the NIH. Guided by Liza Cole at the Children's Inn and the expert duo, Ted Plemons and Dr. Krystal Allen-Worthington, at the Central Animal Facility, these experiences provided the cohort with a tangible sense of the impact and scope of our mission. The ETP Cohort 2 begins later this month.

Visit the Emerging Talent Program website to learn more, or contact NIHTC-ETP@od.nih.gov with questions.